Barren County man agrees to plead guilty in 2025 Park City killing
Orlando was originally charged in connection with Harper’s Sept. 4, 2025, death. She was found with a fatal gunshot wound at a Park City residence.
What you need to know:
- Thomas J. Orlando, 41, has agreed to plead guilty to manslaughter and two counts of wanton endangerment in connection with Brittney Harper’s 2025 death.
- Prosecutors are recommending a 20-year sentence. Orlando would have to serve at least 85% of the manslaughter sentence before becoming eligible for parole.
- Harper’s family participated in mediation efforts that led to the agreement. Sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 9.
GLASGOW, Ky. — A Barren County man has agreed to plead guilty to felony charges in connection with the 2025 killing of a Park City woman, following mediation efforts Thursday.
Thomas J. Orlando, 41, has agreed to plead guilty to first-degree manslaughter and two counts of first-degree wanton endangerment in the death of Brittney Harper.
Under the agreement, prosecutors are recommending a 20-year sentence for the manslaughter charge and five years for each wanton endangerment charge.
The sentences would run concurrently, meaning Orlando would face a total recommended sentence of 20 years.
Orlando was originally charged in connection with Harper’s Sept. 4, 2025, death. She was found with a fatal gunshot wound at a Park City residence. Two children were inside the home at the time of the shooting, according to previous reports from police.
Harper, 35, was a Park City resident and mother of two. According to her obituary, she had a passion for cooking and the outdoors and worked at Ester’s Farm Cafe and Catering and Hungry Hut Concessions. She was also a member of Park City Baptist Church.
Orlando was subsequently indicted on charges including murder (domestic violence) and two counts of wanton endangerment.
In a statement to Barrenside, Commonwealth’s Attorney John Gardner said Harper’s family participated in the mediation process and helped reach the agreement.
“The senseless act of the Defendant has caused an incalculable loss to the victim’s family and friends,” Gardner said. “Representatives of the victim’s family decided to reach an agreement to resolve this case to avoid the risks and additional trauma of proceeding to trial.”
Mediation is an out-of-court process in which parties work with a neutral third party to negotiate an agreement, potentially avoiding a trial.
“Although this agreement is not perfect, it ensures that the Defendant is held responsible for his actions and provides closure for the victim’s family,” Gardner said.
Under the agreement, Orlando would not be eligible for probation or shock probation, which can allow a person serving a prison sentence to be released early under certain conditions.
Because first-degree manslaughter is classified as a violent offense in Kentucky, Orlando would be required to serve at least 85% of the manslaughter sentence before becoming eligible for parole.
The plea agreement is subject to formal court proceedings and approval by the judge. Sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 9 at 9 a.m.
